Our primary function is to be of service in the community at large, sharing tools that support awareness, healing and transformation, on the yoga mat and in the world. We offer daily classes, international teacher training programs, workshops and life coaching.

Our vision is that all beings everywhere are happy and free; and we are committed to excellence, Self-awareness and personal responsibility, as we share these gifts in the community. We invite you to join us and uncover your true Self.

Center of Excellence International

Founded by Dorothy Divack, CENTER OF EXCELLENCE is an International Coaching, Training and Leadership Company. Dorothy supported the vision of It’s Yoga® in 1989 and has since, been affectionately dubbed as the Godmother of It’s Yoga®. In 2011, Marie participated in the EXCEL Training and is currently in the Coaches/Consultants Training. Dorothy serves on the IYI Board of Advisors and is a true Master, sharing her expertise, wisdom and Love through her devotion to Authenticity.

It’s Yoga®

It’s Yoga® was one of the first Ashtanga schools in the West, born in San Francisco. Since 1989, the brand opened numerous locations worldwide, and continues to be a leader in training instructors to practice, teach and excel on and off the mat.

Tuesday, February 27

Celebrating the Rocket® Creator

It’s been 7 years since the Founder of the It’s Yoga System of Ashtanga VInyasa Yoga, & Creator of the Rocket® made his transition to the next dimension!  Join this Live class from anywhere in the world and feel the energy of his love.

Starts at 4:30 PM GMT

Save the date! Log in information coming soon!

“What is The Rocket®? Well, It’s Yoga®!”

Created by Larry Schultz in the early 90’s while he was on tour with The Grateful Dead as their yoga instructor, The Rocket® Routines are variations of Classical Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.  Ashtanga Vinyasa is a dynamic and aerobic practice that links breath and movement to support overall well being, optimal health; and a strong and flexible body and mind.

“Is this for Me?”

The answer is Yes. The routines are created to be practiced in a group setting, attending to practitioners individual needs.This is achieved by modifying the postures as needed, and still be part of a safe and effective sequence in a group atmosphere. Your body is unique to You. As facilitators, we learn how to offer these teachings by observing and working with You. For an in-depth engagement with your practice, private classes are ideal too

– Primary Series : The foundational routine of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, is a fluid and moving style of physical postures and breath linked together (75 to 85 minutes)

– MPS : Modified Primary Series, based on the Primary Series, with a focus on warm up, standing and seated postures, including final relaxation (45 minutes)

– Midweek Meditation : A seated meditation practice will guide you through mindful awareness followed by a short group conversation (45 minutes)

– Rocket®1 : A dynamic sequence with emphasis on legs, shoulders and abs, using postures from First and Second series (60 to 75 minutes)

– Rocket®2 : Focuses on strength poses, backbends and hip openers, with postures from Second and Third series (60 to 75 minutes)

– Rocket®3 : The Fusion of Rocket® 1 and 2 creating a complete interpretation of the It’s Yoga® System. A great way to kick off the Weekend! (60 to 90 minutes)

“The Rocket® gets you there Faster!”

(Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead)

Marie Russel

In 2002, Marie started practicing at It’s Yoga® in Columbus, Ohio and was immediately drawn to its healing benefits. Soon she realized that she was happier and healthier when she was practicing yoga, so she went to San Francisco to participate in the It’s Yoga® Teacher Training Program with founder, Larry Schultz.  Following the training, Marie had the unique opportunity to study, practice, live and teach with Master Yogi Larry Schultz for 7 years before he passed in 2011, leaving Marie with the It’s Yoga® legacy to carry forth and grow globally. Thus, she founded It’s Yoga® International (IYI) where she serves as Director and directly collaborates with the IYI Affiliates, Trainers and Graduates on daily basis. Marie is dedicated to serve the world at a high level, here from Toledo and abroad, by Sharing the Love of the Practice.

Dani Russel

Dani dropped into the lap of classical Mysore style Ashtanga in 2000 when living in London and found a practice for his personal well-being. Whilst visiting family in Stockholm, Sweden in 2011, Dani met Marie; tuned into a Rocket® 3 Happy Hour in his jeans, moved to the US 4 weeks later and has been flying high ever since. Six years and children later, he is honored to be of service to a truly diverse Toledo community and our international following from Mexico, Italy, Spain, Thailand, Scandinavia, UK and beyond.